sneak preview

noun

1. a preview of a motion picture, often shown in addition to an announced film, in order to observe the reaction of the audience.

sneak preview

noun

1. a screening of a film at an unexpected time to test audience reaction before its release

Word History and Origins

Origin of sneak preview¹

First recorded in 1935–40

Idioms and Phrases

An advance showing of something, as in It was supposed to be bad luck but she gave the bridegroom a sneak preview of her wedding gown . This expression originated in the 1930s for a single public showing of a motion picture before its general release, and in succeeding decades was transferred to other undertakings.

Example Sentences

The campaign was the brainchild of Funworks, whose ideation process involves workshops with comedians and improvisers who get a sneak preview of the game.

From Digiday

In this sneak preview of the Freakonomics Radio Network’s newest show, Bapu discovers that marathons can be deadly — but not for the reasons you may think.

From Freakonomics

In an exclusive sneak preview, I found it impressively comprehensive and easy to navigate, with a design and information to appeal to everyone from newbies to connoisseurs.

From Fortune

Camilla was given a sneak preview of the third series as she saw filming take place while Charles visited a nearby housing estate.

From The Daily Beast

Related Words

• world premiere